Heading to Queensland soon and looking for the best resorts in the Whitsundays?
In this guide, we tell you everything you need to know about the most exceptional resorts in the Whitsunday Islands. The Whitsundays are one of the most beautiful places to visit in Australia.
Amongst the most famous sites, you will find Whitehaven Beach, the Heart Reef and the Great Barrier Reef. Only a few islands are inhabited and they are very popular island resort destinations in Queensland, Australia.
Whether you are a couple looking for a romantic holiday in the Whitsundays or a family, the Whitsundays resorts will be perfect for you!
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Quick summary of the best resorts in the Whitsundays
In a rush and want to jump straight to the interesting bits? Here is a quick summary of the best resorts in the Whitsundays.
- Best Family Resort in the Whitsundays: Palm Bungalows
- Best Honeymoon Resort in the Whitsundays: Qualia
- Best Luxury Resort in the Whitsundays: InterContinental Hayman Island Resort
- Best Whitsunday resort for a relaxing holiday: Daydream Island Resort
- Best value for money: Reef View Hotel
Best resorts in the Whitsunday Islands
Best resorts on Hamilton Island
Hamilton Island is the most popular island in the Whitsundays. You can easily reach it by plane or ferry. There is no car on the island and Catseye Beach (the main beach) is beautiful. It’s a great holiday destination in the Whitsundays! Here are the best resorts on Hamilton Island.
Qualia
The Qualia Resort is the ultimate place to stay in the Whitsundays! This luxury hotel is perfect for honeymoons.
It’s an adult-only resort which is reserved to people over the age of 16. If you are a couple looking for a relaxing holiday, it doesn’t get any better than that!
Unlike most resorts on Hamilton Island, this one is not located on the resort side but at the Northern tip of the island. It’s a quieter place which again, is ideal for people who want to relax.
There are some buggy available so you can easily reach the marina and Catseye beach if you want to.
The resort has a private beach and although smaller than Catseye Beach, it’s very private and just as beautiful. The sand is white and soft and the views over the coral sea are stunning!
How to get there: If you are flying to Hamilton Island, you can opt for the VIP transfer provided by Qualia. The resort also has a helipad and a marina which means you can easily get there with your private helicopter or yacht.
What do we love about it:
- It’s a private Oasis
- The service is outstanding
- It’s luxurious
- The location is perfect for a relaxing holiday
- It’s a one in a lifetime experience
What don’t we like about it:
It would be hard to find something that is not to like at Qualia. It is a piece of paradise! Although there is nothing to dislike about it, it’s worth noting that it won’t be for you if you are travelling with kids or are looking for a place where you can party.
HOW TO BOOK: You can book directly on the Hamilton Island website. Click here to see the latest prices.
You will find all the information you need as well as the prices for the different packages.
If you wanted to see some reviews, you can also check out the TripAdvisor page.
Beach Club Resort
The Beach Club is an adult-only resort. If you are looking for a resort on Hamilton Island for a family holiday, this one won’t be for you.
However, if you are a couple of a group of friends looking for an amazing resort, right on the beach, it’s perfect! The Beach Club is a popular place to stay for a honeymoon or babymoon in Australia!
You will find a spa, an infinity pool, room service… everything you need for a relaxing holiday! There is direct access to Catseye Beach, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Whitsundays.
The swimming pools are surrounded by palm trees! It almost feels like the Caribbean! The Beach Club restaurant is particularly popular. There is also a waiting list amongst non-hotel resident for eating there. As a guest of the Beach Club, you will have priority. They serve Australian dishes made with delicious fresh and local products!
Click here to see more photos.
What we love about the Beach Club:
- This is one of the best resorts on Hamilton Island. The features and services are incredible.
- The beach is stunning
- The breakfast is delicious. So is lunch and dinner at the restaurant.
What’s not to like about the Beach Club:
- The pool area can get a bit busy
- Besides that, there isn’t anything bad to say about it. It’s an amazing Whitsundays resort!
HOW TO BOOK: You can book directly through the official website of Hamilton Island. Click here to see the latest prices.
If you wish to see the reviews, check the TripAdvisor or the Booking page.
Reef View Hotel on Hamilton Island
Looking for a little piece of paradise on Hamilton Island? The Reef View Hotel is an all-time favourite for families! It’s ideally located near Catseye Beach and features a swimming pool, a spa and wellness centre, a restaurant, a bar and a fitness centre.
There are loads of activities you can do from the hotel including going on a day trip to Whitehaven Beach. Catseye Beach is perfect to go swimming, working on your tan or snorkelling. It’s known to be home to loads of sea turtles! The pool is pretty incredible too with palm trees and sunbath chairs. You will love spending time there!
The rooms themselves feature a contemporary style.
Click here to see more photos.
What we love about the Reef View Hotel:
- The staff is incredibly helpful
- The location is amazing
- Fabulous views
- Great breakfast
What’s not to like about the Reef View Hotel: It can be hard to get a table at the restaurant so make sure you are booking in advance.
HOW TO BOOK: You can book directly through the official website of Hamilton Island. Click here to see the latest prices.
To see reviews from travellers, check out their TripAdvisor or Booking page.
Palm Bungalows on Hamilton Island
Amongst all the Whitsunday Islands resorts, Palm Bungalows is the most unique one. Instead of staying in a big resort, you will have your own bungalow!
Of course, you will still have access to all the facilities provided by the resort. This includes an amazing swimming pool, a bar and a restaurant.
If you are looking for a place to go glamping in the Whitsundays, Palm Bungalows are the perfect place! The bungalows feature a beautiful tropical contemporary style and there are palm trees everywhere! They are stunning!
There is a kitchen inside which means you can cook without having to go out!
Click here to see more photos.
What we love about Palm Bungalows:
- Beautiful surroundings
- Amazing features in the bungalows
- Great kitchen
- Very helpful staff
- Breakfast buffet
- Free airport shuttle
What’s not to like about it:
- There isn’t a bathtub
- Again, Palm Bungalow is one of the best resorts in the Whitsunday islands so it’s hard to find anything wrong with it.
Click here for more information and see the latest prices.
Best resort on Daydream Island
Daydream Island is the most underrated island in the Whitsundays. It’s a great place to enjoy a relaxing holiday away from the crowds. Daydream island accommodation options are limited.
The Daydream island resort is the only hotel there but I can promise you something, it won’t disappoint!
It features 2 beautiful pools, a lagoon and has direct access to the beach. It’s the perfect place for people who love swimming!
From the resort, you can go on wonderful rainforest walks and excursions. There are loads of day trips from Daydream island including snorkelling, jet skiing and diving!
There are several restaurants and bars in the resort. You will be spoilt for choice!
Daydream Island resort was fully renovated after a hurricane a few years ago. It now features an incredibly beautiful decor!
Click here to see more photos.
What we love about Daydream Island Resort:
- It’s such a relaxing and peaceful place
- Amazing services and facilities
- Beautiful beach
- Amazing location
What’s not to like about Daydream Island Resort: There is no airport on Daydream Island so you need to fly to Airlie or Hamilton before getting there by boat.
Click here for more information and see the latest prices.
Best resort on Hayman Island: InterContinental Hayman Island Resort
When it comes to luxury resorts in the Whitsunday islands, InterContinental Hayman Island Resort sets the standard. Hayman Island is like a little Oasis. It’s not as crowded as Hamilton Island which is why it’s a way better place to stay in the Whitsundays if you want to enjoy peace and quiet.
InterContinental Hayman Island Resort features rooms with amazing beach views and terraces.
There are a beach bar and a luxury restaurant. Whether you like Asian, Italian or Australian food, you can have it!
You will also find 2 swimming pools and of course, the beautiful beach!
It’s the perfect place for a relaxing retreat! You can get massages, go to a yoga or pilates class and sunset hikes! In terms of day trips, you will have access to a wide selection of water activities and can go exploring Whitehaven Beach, Hamilton Island and the Great Barrier Reef.
Click here to see more photos.
What we love about it:
- All rooms have a view of the pool. It’s absolutely stunning!
- The Beach Pool villas are so cute and beautiful! Perfect place for a honeymoon!
- Produce at the restaurant are locally sourced
- Idyllic island
- Very relaxing place
- The staff is outstanding
What’s not to like about it:
- There is no airport on Hayman Island so you will need to fly to Hamilton Island or Airlie Beach and take a boat from there.
- This is the most luxurious resort in the Whitsundays so there isn’t much not to like! As long as you can afford it, it’s the perfect place!
Click here for more information and see the latest prices.
Best resorts on Long Island
Long Island is located near the coast of Queensland. Although it’s quite a big island compared to the others, it’s not as popular as Hamilton island. That being said, there are 2 amazing resorts on Long Island and they are very nice places to stay in the Whitsundays.
Palm Bay Resort
Palm Bay resort is ideal for people looking for self-catering accommodation.
It has a private beach where you can go for a swim or a relaxing afternoon. It’s a very idyllic and peaceful place where you enjoy a lovely Whitsunday holiday.
There are a swimming pool and a bar where you can grab a delicious cocktail. It’s also located by the rainforest, perfect for walks!
Click here to see more photos.
What we love about it:
- Beautiful off-the-beaten-path destination
- Peaceful and laid-back
- Modern room and facilities
- Great cooking facilities
What’s not to like about it: Long island is not quite as easily accessible as the other islands
Click here for more information and see the latest prices.
Elysian Retreat on Long Island
This is the best place for a retreat in the Whitsundays. It feels so peaceful and relaxing.
It features a tropical boho style with a beautiful pool right by the ocean and beautifully decorated rooms.
The atmosphere is so peaceful. It’s the perfect getaway!
The food served is also delicious!
Click here to see more photos.
What we love about it:
- Helpful and welcoming staff
- Beautiful decor and location
- Talented chef and delicious food
- Amazing beach
What’s not to like about it: It’s quite off-the-beaten-path which means it’s not as easy to go on day trips
Click here for more information and see the latest prices.
Best resorts on the Whitsunday Coast
The islands are not the only places where you can find amazing resorts in the Whitsundays. Airlie Beach and the rest of the Whitsunday Coast are also home to fantastic accommodation.
Coral Sea Marina Resort
Coral Sea Marina is the most famous resort in Airlie Beach. If you want to have access to everything, this is the place for you!
The resort is located on the waterfront which is very pleasant as the views are amazing.
The facilities are incredible. You will find everything you need here including a swimming pool and restaurant.
In terms of location, you will be on Oceanview Avenue. It’s only a short walk to the town centre, Shingley Beach and the marina for day trips.
It’s also worth noting that breakfast is included in the package and the hotel offers airport transfers.
What do we love about it:
- Amazing location in Airlie Beach (short walk to town)
- Everything you need is here!
- The views are amazing
- The staff is very friendly
What don’t we like about it:
- Not as private as the resorts on the islands
Click here to see more photos and the latest prices.
Martinique Whitsunday Resort
The Martinique Whitsunday Resort is a French Caribbean inspired hotel in Airlie Beach (hence the name). It’s located only 250 metres from the town centre which means you can easily reach the main attractions.
It is truly one of the best places to stay in Airlie Beach and the views from the holiday apartments are amongst the best in the area.
They offer various sizes when it comes to the flats including 1, 2 and 3 bedrooms. This means it’s suitable for a couple as well as a family.
There are so many things to do in the Whitsundays. It’s truly one of the most magical places in the world! If you choose to stay in one of these Whitsundays resorts, you can be sure to have an amazing time!
Each apartment is self contained. You’ll find a fully equipped kitchen as well as laundry equipment.
Apart from the flats themselves, the resort offers various amenities including a stunning infinity pool! You will love spending time there, soaking up the views and taking beautiful photos.
What do we love about it:
- The views are breath-taking (and some apartments have a private balcony)
- The infinity pool
- The fact that the flats are self-contained so you can prepare all your meals there.
- It’s very good value for money
What don’t we like about it:
- They don’t allow pets
- The walk from the main street can be a bit challenging
Click here to see the latest prices.
You may also be interested in:
- Pet-friendly accommodation in Airlie Beach
- 12 Best Airbnbs on Hamilton Island for an unforgettable holiday in the Whitsundays
- Best Airbnb in Airlie Beach: the coolest holiday rentals near the Whitsundays!
- How to get to the Whitsundays
- Best Whitsundays day trips
- Summertime Whitsundays Review: the best overnight sailing trip in the Whitsundays
- How to get to Whitehaven Beach
- Things to do in Hamilton Island
- Things to do in Daydream Island
